Managed Doing Business As (DBA) Services

We handle your DBA project from conception through maintenance. We navigate registration requirements across state lines, check name availability, prepare and file DBA registrations, track renewals, and prepare and file renewals.

  • Access to a compliance specialist who consults with you on your project
  • Complete document preparation, filing, and follow-up with government agencies through approval
  • Full transparency of your project status and renewal tracking via the new DBA List feature in our software
- Rated 4.2/5 by 143 clients on Google

Contact Us
A businessman overlooking the city in his office

Michigan DBA / Fictitious Name / Trade Name Registrations

Registration requirements for Michigan business entities

Business entities that plan to use a name other than their legal business name may need to register an assumed name. Assumed name registration can take place at the state, local, or state and local levels of government. State specific registration information is available below.

Michigan Fictitious Name Registrations

Michigan Certificate of Assumed Name

Is registration mandatory?

Filing an assumed name registration is required for any person or entity intending to conduct business under an assumed name.

County Level Filing:

Corporations, LLCs, and nonprofits are registered at the state level, but partnerships and sole-proprietorships must register assumed names through the county clerk's office.

Does registration prevent others from using the name I choose?

Registration of an assumed name does not offer name protection by itself, however, names must be distinguishable from other names on record with the department.

Agency:Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) - Bureau of Corporations, Securities & Commercial Licensing - Corporations Division

Initial Registration
Assumed Name

Form:

Certificate of Assumed Name

Filing Method:

Mail or online.

Agency Fee:

$10 for corporations or limited partnerships and $25 for limited liability companies.

Is registration mandatory?:

Filing an assumed name registration is required for any person or entity intending to conduct business under an assumed name.

County Level Filing:

Corporations, LLCs, and nonprofits are registered at the state level, but partnerships and sole-proprietorships must register assumed names through the county clerk's office.

Does registration prevent others from using the name I choose?:

Registration of an assumed name does not offer name protection by itself, however, names must be distinguishable from other names on record with the department.

Notes:
  • Publication of registration is not required in Michigan.

Registration Renewal
Assumed Name Renewal

Form:

Certificate of Assumed Name

Filing Method:

Mail or online.

Agency Fee:

$10 for corporations or limited partnerships and $25 for limited liability companies.

Due:

By December 31 of the 5th full calendar year following the most recent date of registration.

Local Fictitious Name Registrations

Kent County Assumed Name Registration

Agency:Kent County Clerk's Office (MI)

Initial Registration
Assumed Name

Form:

Business Registration Form

Agency Fee:

$10

Notarization Required?:Required

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business Registration Form (Renewal)

Agency Fee:

$10

Due:

Assumed names expire every 5 years from the date of filing. Renewals must be filed 30-90 days prior to the expiration date.

Notarization Required?:Required